How to start a career as an engineer!
by Gerhard Stähler in
Recruitment Trends,
Leadership — June 2016
Gerhard Staehler talks about his experience in recruiting young engineers and explains how you can successfully set up a career as an engineer. Furthermore, he gives advice how to avoid mistakes in the application process.
The most important message is: Preparation is everything! Try to see your career as a long term project that requires several steps. Do not leave anything to chance!
The 3 most important steps for career starters
1. Period of orientation:
Ask yourself the following questions at the beginning of the job search (or already during your education):
- What would I like to do?
- What professional and personal skills do I have?
- Where do I want to apply / which companies are interesting?
- What do I offer the employment market? Think about a good self-description, what are the assets of your personality and your technical know-how?
- What problems do you solve for potential employers?
- Which companies would need my expertise?
2. Period of „active“ application:
Send your application not only to companies that have posted a job offer but also to those companies that are interesting to you.
- Find out what companies might be interesting (large corporations or medium-sized enterprises, national or international)
- Do not send mass applications!
- Your cover letter should be authentic and creative in its approach. It should briefly summarize why you are the right candidate for this position.
- Your resume should not contain any gaps, use longer periods of job search for active times for training or volunteering. Give a brief overview of the last positions and what you did there. The description “technical employee” is not enough.
3. The interview:
Take the advantage of this personal meeting to convince the company of your personality and professional skills. Remain authentic and open in communication.
- Research the business sector, products and services of your potential employer.
- Practice the interview situation with friends and family.
- Think about questions to ask about the company or the role. Write these down – otherwise you will forget them in the heat of the moment.
- Punctuality is the politeness of kings!
- Dress code for the interview: Find out what is usual in this business (suit & tie or jeans & jacket). Your clothes are essential for a good first impression.
- Communicate your salary expectations clearly in advance. Never ask for more in the interview.
Watch the Video in German language:
Gerhard Stähler about the most important steps for a successful career
